Tag Archives: Canal de Garonne

Why not enjoy two vibrant French cities on your next holiday in France… you can with a bike ride down the Canal de Garonne from Bordeaux to Toulouse!

This is a popular route with many of our cyclotourist customers; from single riders and touring couples to large groups of 10+ adults.

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The 257km route takes you along a lovely mix of city, off road cycle path, quiet country roads and the canal side cycling. The paths are smooth and well kept making this route perfect for all abilities.

It is possible to complete the route in as little as 3 days or you can take your time, up to 7 days, staying for longer periods and exploring the surrounding area along the way.

The first leg of the trip takes you from Bordeaux city centre out and onto the Roger Lapebie cycle path.

The path officially begins in Latresne, just out of the city, but directions to the start are very well signposted out of the city, especially from the promenade at the river front.

This off-road disused railway line is a fantastic way to experience the area by bike, taking you right through the heart of the wine country.

You will see sunflowers and vines for 57km, finishing at the end of the cycle path in the town of Sauveterre-de-Guyenne.

The terrain of the cycle path is fairly flat, smooth tarmac and winds through lots of lovely little towns.

So there are plenty of places to stop for replenishments, or stay overnight, or visit a little bit of history – such as the abbey at La Sauve.

From Sauveterre, the terrain switches to country roads for around 16km linking down to the town of La Reole, where you pick up the Canal de Garonne all the way to Toulouse.

Again this section of the canal is well kept making an enjoyable ride, with lots of points of interest and history dotting the 190km route.

The greenway alongside the canal is shaded with planes making the ride very comfortable even during the hot summer months.

Following the water through many traditional villages and past lock houses, the major town to cycle through is Agen.

Later as you approach the village of Moissac, take time to explore the distinctive abbey here and then get back on the canal trail which will take you to your destination, Toulouse!

Bike Hire Direct Gironde will deliver your bikes directly to your accommodation in Bordeaux – or meet you off of your flight at the airport if you prefer to hit the ground running!

We provide all accessories needed to carry your belongings, and we also offer an empty luggage storage service for the duration of the trip. No waiting for bags to arrive at your next accommodation, you have everything you need with you. This also gives you much more flexibility if you decide to stay longer in a particular area or are making better time than you originally thought.

When you arrive in Toulouse there are excellent train links back to Bordeaux making it very easy to travel back with your bike. Some of the train services here are able to carry up to 20 bikes on board.

We of course will meet you again in Bordeaux city to collect your bikes, directly at the train station if you wish.

Visit the Bike Hire Direct website to find out more about cycling in Gironde. and for more details on how we can make cycling hassle free for you!